Lakers consider sacrificing Dalton Knecht to recruit a center… or the Hornets’ injury?

In an offseason full of questions, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly weighing a bold and controversial move: trading rising prospect Dalton Knecht in order to solve their glaring issue at the center position. While fans have grown excited about Knecht’s potential, the front office appears to be exploring all options — including taking advantage of the Charlotte Hornets’ injury troubles to strike a deal.

Could the Lakers really move on from one of their most promising young talents after just one season?

The Dilemma: Wing Depth vs. Frontcourt Needs

The Lakers’ front office knows time is running out. LeBron James is entering what could be his final NBA season, and Anthony Davis, while dominant, has struggled with consistency and injury. The roster lacks a true, reliable backup center — and some around the league believe Davis needs help inside if L.A. wants to be a real championship contender in 2025.

Dalton Knecht, the No. 17 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, is a name drawing real trade interest. After a rookie season filled with flashes of elite shot-making and potential three-level scoring, Knecht is a player many consider untouchable — or at least they did… until now.

According to multiple insiders, the Lakers are open to including Knecht in trade talks if it means landing a starting-caliber center or a versatile defensive big who can stretch the floor.

Charlotte Hornets: A Window of Opportunity?

Enter the Charlotte Hornets, a team riddled with injuries and uncertainty.

Key players in Charlotte’s frontcourt — most notably Mark Williams, their promising young big — have been dealing with lingering health issues. The Hornets are under pressure to reshuffle their roster and get healthy, but they’re also looking to inject young talent into a rebuilding core around LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.

This opens a door for the Lakers. League sources suggest that L.A. could explore a trade that sends Knecht to the Hornets in exchange for Nick Richards, or potentially even a more complex package that includes future picks or role players. Richards, a 7-foot athletic center with rim-protecting ability, could be the type of interior presence the Lakers covet — especially on a low salary.

If Charlotte is forced to sell due to injuries and frontcourt instability, the Lakers could strike while the iron’s hot.

What Would the Lakers Be Losing with Knecht?

The idea of trading Dalton Knecht won’t sit well with many fans — or even some players. Just recently, Austin Reaves publicly praised Knecht, predicting a breakout year for the sharpshooting forward:

“His shot-making ability is through the roof… He can make any shot in basketball.”

Knecht is 6’7″, athletic, and known for his deadly 3-point range. While he had inconsistent minutes last season, he exploded in several games — including a 35-point performance against Denver. Many inside the organization believe he could develop into a consistent starting wing in the next two years.

However, the Lakers may be prioritizing win-now moves over long-term development. The team can’t afford to miss another postseason or get bounced early. Trading Knecht might sting in the short term — but if it returns a piece that helps LeBron and AD now, the front office might pull the trigger.

Other Potential Trade Targets for the Lakers

Aside from Charlotte’s Nick Richards, the Lakers are rumored to be eyeing several other center options:

• Isaiah Hartenstein (Knicks): A rugged rebounder and elite screen-setter. However, he’s set to command a high price in free agency.

• Xavier Tillman (Celtics): A valuable depth big with playoff experience. Could be available in a package deal.

• Daniel Gafford (Mavericks): Unlikely to be moved, but an ideal fit if somehow attainable.

• Zach Collins (Spurs): Stretch big with injury history — and a possible trade chip if San Antonio reshapes around Wembanyama.

To land any of these names, the Lakers may have to give up either future picks or a prospect like Knecht, Max Christie, or Jalen Hood-Schifino.

The Verdict: A Gamble Worth Taking?

The Lakers face a classic win-now vs. future dilemma. Dalton Knecht has all the makings of a future scoring star. But if the Lakers want to compete for a championship in 2025, they may have to package him to acquire someone who can contribute immediately — especially in the paint.

Charlotte’s injury situation presents a rare moment of leverage. If the Hornets are willing to part with one of their big men, the Lakers could pounce — and Knecht could be the asset that seals the deal.

Will the front office make the gamble? Or will they hold onto Knecht and risk another season of soft interior defense and heavy minutes for AD at center?

Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Lakers are preparing for major changes — and Dalton Knecht’s future in L.A. is anything but guaranteed.